Midfielder Tomáš Souček is fully embracing his first experience of New York and New Jersey as he and his teammates gear up for their first taste of Premier League Summer Series action against Manchester United on Saturday evening (7pm EDT).
The Czechia captain has never before visited the Big Apple, having only previously been in the United States for last summer’s Sunshine State Tour in Florida, and he has been suitably impressed by the area’s skylines, the MetLife Stadium and the training facilities at the historic Rutgers University.
Following a productive pre-season training camp in Germany last week, and an enjoyable first couple of days across the pond, Souček is now itching to get back into match action at the MetLife, the host of next summer’s FIFA World Cup final.
“Everything’s been really good so far,” he said. “My first impressions were that the city is so big, and the people have been so nice, and have looked after us.
“Where we have been training has been unbelievable, and I’m really looking forward to playing in the stadium as well. I’ve only ever seen it on TV before, but I know it’s very famous, and even though it’s pre-season we’re all determined to play well for the fans who will be there.
“It’s been a good pre-season so far - the squad is together, and the coaches have been giving us great sessions. I’ve seen fresh faces and strong motivation from everyone, and it’s important now we keep building towards the start of the season.”
One member of the Irons squad looking to make his second appearance for the Hammers against the Red Devils - following his arrival earlier this month - will be El Hadji Malick Diouf, who joined from Souček’s former club, Slavia Prague.
Souček said: “He’s a really good guy and I’m confident he will be a good player for us.
“I really trust him because I’ve watched him play many times, and I know he has a great reputation. My old teammates and coaches from Slavia all say really positive things about him, so hopefully he can continue to impress on Saturday.”
Following the Manchester United clash, West Ham are set to travel to Chicago, Illinois, for an exciting match-up with former manager David Moyes’ Everton on Wednesday 30 July, before completing an exciting hat-trick of matches by taking on AFC Bournemouth in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday 3 August.
Throughout the series, Souček will be hoping he has possession of what will prove to be a good luck charm, having been gifted a one-of-a-kind Topps Chrome UEFA Euro trading card of himself - worth $600 - by a very generous member of the Claret and Blue Army, Tim Skinner from Somerville, New Jersey, while meeting supporters alongside Alphonse Areola and Niclas Füllkrug at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford.
“I always love playing against Everton in particular, because I have a good record against them and I have a great relationship with Moyes, so I’m looking forward to that game and the Bournemouth match as well,” added Souček, who has scored two goals in his last three appearances against the Toffees.
“The Topps card is very generous, and I thanked him very much for it. I asked him many times if he was sure he wanted to give it to me, but he insisted and I really appreciate it.
“I collected a lot of cards myself when I was younger, so I can add it to the ones I’ve got. It was a really nice show of support and hopefully it can help bring us some good fortune.”
Tickets for all of West Ham's three Premier League Summer Series matches remain on General Sale HERE, with supporters now able to save 20% on select seats by using the code PLSS20.
